Law enforcement agencies around the country have recently completed sweeps of organized retail theft gangs.

Their members include men, women, and children of all ages, races, and origins. Retail theft has long been gaining in popularity because of the relatively minor penalties for those convicted. Minor children are often involved, under instruction of adults, because minors seldom serve time other than juvenile detention.   Cultural properties are as vulnerable as any retail outlet. Especially where gift shops display jewelry, clothing, or other easily traded items. One must start with a careful screening process for staff, and strict controls over money handling and merchandise handling. A thorough understanding of shoplifting laws in your area is strongly recommended. Coordinate both prevention steps and apprehension policies with your security staff and local police. Just “calling security” when an incident occurs is not enough. You need "Probable Cause" to have someone arrested and an understanding of what is necessary for a successful prosecution. No staff member or security officer should have the need to forcibly detain or put his or her hands on any suspect. The start to finish procedure for observing, contacting security and the police, and pressing charges needs to be documented and disseminated. Please contact us if we can answer questions or provide additional information.